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Victoria becomes first state to legalise pill testing services

Victoria has passed new legislation enabling pill testing services, becoming the first jurisdiction in Australia to support pill testing through dedicated laws.

The Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Amendment (Pill Testing) Bill 2024 permits both fixed and mobile pill testing services in Victoria.

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This legislation ensures that using or operating these services will not be considered a legal offence.

Backed by the Victorian Labor Government, the move aims to prevent drug-related deaths and influence drug-taking behaviours by providing detailed substance information.

Ingrid Stitt told the LiSTNR Newsroom that the legislation focuses on saving lives and equipping Victorians with essential health information for informed choices. 

“We also want to implement this system of drug checking before our busy festival season later this year,” Stitt said.

A mobile pill testing service will launch this summer, attending up to ten music festivals and events. 

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Earlier this year, nine people were hospitalised with hyperthermia (extreme overheating) after taking MDMA in the sweltering heat at Hardmission Festival. 

Additionally, a permanent site in Melbourne will open by mid-2025 in partnership with a community or healthcare provider.

The sites will be located near nightlife hubs and transport links, with targeted hours to maximise accessibility.

“No drug is ever truly safe. But with this new legislation, we know that Victorians can become better informed about their drug use,” Stitt added.

The testing process will use advanced technology to analyse various drug forms—such as pills, capsules, powders, and liquids—and flag potentially lethal ingredients. 

Trained peer workers and health experts will be on-site, providing confidential advice to help people make safer, informed choices.

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